The Impact of Anemia on the Immune System during Pregnancy: A Review

Anemia is a prevalent condition during pregnancy, often leading to significant health consequences for both the mother and fetus. One of the major concerns associated with anemia in pregnant women is its impact on the immune system. Iron deficiency, the most common cause of anemia, can impair immune cell function, reduce the body’s ability to respond to infections, and alter inflammatory responses. This review explores the effects of maternal anemia on immune function during pregnancy, highlighting the disruptions to innate and adaptive immunity and the mechanisms involved, such as altered cytokine production and immune cell dysregulation. The immune system undergoes considerable changes during pregnancy to balance maternal and fetal protection, and anemia can disrupt this delicate equilibrium. Anemia’s impact on immune cells, particularly neutrophils, macrophages, and T lymphocytes, compromises the body’s defense against infections. Moreover, anemia-associated inflammation can promote a pro-inflammatory state, contributing to pregnancy complications like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm labor. These immune dysregulations may also affect fetal development, increasing the risk of neonatal infections or immune-related disorders.